Washington DC Hotels

With so much white stone around, from the White House to the Capitol, you almost need sunglasses to walk around the city centre. The political buildings and monuments are designed to impress – and they do that, but that’s not all Washington DC has to offer.

There are also great places to eat such as Fisherman’s Wharf, places to go like Chinatown and trendy bars to hop to in the U Street Corridor. Or you could lose yourself in and between one of the many museums, including the American History Museum, and the mother of them all, the Smithsonian.

If you look hard enough, you can find trendy ways to see this stubborn, traditional city. Why not take a Segue Tour or jump in a paddleboat to while away an afternoon on the Potomac River.

The seat of US (and global) power, Washington DC is an unashamedly patriotic city in an almost laughably patriotic country. Go for the grandeur, yes, and feel slightly cowed – as the architects intended – at being surrounded by the physical manifestations of great power. But then realise that humans ultimately wield power, and by digging a little deeper you discover that Washington DC is one of the most human cities there is.

Washington, DC: Create your own powerful moments

No other city offers as many fun, FREE, world-class attractions to fill your days. From museums to performances to outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone! Discover our monuments and memorials, our 16 Smithsonian Museums , the National Zoo, as well as the National Gallery of Art, National Archives, the Bureau of Printing and Engraving all free of charge. Plus, where else in the world can you visit with a 19-foot President Lincoln, read the real U.S. Constitution, see Dorothy’s ruby red slippers and soak in internationally acclaimed art for free (or almost free)? Only in Washington, DC.

Washington’s Top 10

Washington, DC, History

• Mount Vernon Estate – This 500-acre property along the shores of the Potomac River belonged to George Washington.
• Old Stone House – This is the oldest-known house in Washington, DC.
• US Capitol Building – One of the most recognised and historical buildings in the US.
• White House – This place has served as home and office to each of the US presidents since John Adams.
• Washington Monument – Construction on this landmark started in 1848 and finished in 1884.

Washington, DC, Art & Culture

• International Spy Museum – A place of wonder that tells the story of spies and espionage throughout history.
• Holocaust Memorial Museum – Exhibits show the history and impact of the Holocaust.
• National Air and Space Museum Smithsonian Institution – Holds the biggest collection of aviation and space history artefacts worldwide.
• John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts – This Washington, DC, centre features cultural programs and events, ballet, musical and theatrical performances.
• National Gallery of Art – This great art collection is housed in two buildings.

Washington, DC, Power Shopping

Fashionistas, take note: Hop on the metro to Friendship Heights where you’ll get to shop for high-end designer fashions at Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Tiffany and more. Wisconsin Avenue's where it's at for new looks from local designers. Hunting for home furnishings and vintage clothing? Go to U Street corridor. Stocking up on wardrobe basics? You might want to start in Georgetown. You’ll also find some of the top shopping centers and outlet malls in the country just minutes from downtown.

• Capitol Hill Barracks Row – The place to go for gifts, antiques and fresh produce.
• Chevy Chase and Friendship Heights – Offers high-end designs and fashions from some of the best-known stores and brands.
• Downtown – A relatively new shopping area in Washington, DC, offering a bit of everything.
• Dupont Circle – Shops here sell things like awesome art, funky accessories, second-hand books and more.
• Georgetown – Great place for shoes and clothing that are locally designed and made.

Gay & Lesbian Washington, DC

• Apex – A popular place to hang out or show off great moves on the dance floor.
• Cobalt – This is a destination for dancing and lively nightlife.
• DIK Bar – The place to go for those looking to socialise and view the yearly drag queen high-heels race.
• Duplex Diner – A cosy restaurant and gay bar with tasty food.
• Green Lantern – Offers happy hour and other specials, pool tables, karaoke and video games.

Washington, DC, Outdoor

• Constitution Gardens – A popular place in Washington, DC, for a picnic.
• Rock Creek Park – Bike, hike, ride horses and more at this park.
• Theodore Roosevelt Island – Rent a canoe from the Georgetown Waterfront and explore the island.
• Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens – Devoted to aquatic plants, with a total of 45 ponds and more than 100,000 ferns, water lilies and lotuses.
• National Arboretum – A lovely place to stroll through acres of trees, flowering plants and various gardens.

Washington, DC, Sport

• Watch the Washington Redskins play American football at the FedEx Field.
• Participate in the Rock 'n' Roll USA Marathon held each March in Washington, DC.
• Catch a Washington Capitals hockey game at the Verizon Center.
• See the Washington Nationals baseball team play at the waterfront National Park stadium.
• Cheer on the DC United football team at the Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium Stadium.

Neighbourhoods’ Highlights

Beyond DC’s iconic memorials and monuments a number of unique neighborhoods unfold throughout the city. Take some time to venture off the National Mall to explore the city’s collection of sidewalk cafés, quaint boutiques, gorgeous parks and gardens, charming museums and trendy nightlife. From the urban buzz in downtown’s Penn Quarter to the tranquility of Woodley Park to the up-all-night feel of Adams Morgan, there’s so much to see and do beyond the Mall.

Washington Local

The National Mall is the main area of interest for most tourists. Museum central, it’s also home to the tourist attracting Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial, as well as some lesser known but very cool sites like the Reflecting Pool and the National Mall Carousel.

Capitol Hill

If power trips are your thing – take a trip to the seat of legislative and judicial power. Capitol Hill is home to the US Capitol (America’s parliament), the US Supreme Court and the Library of Congress. Union Station and the National Postal Museum are nearby in case you want to leave or go postal (in the non-psychopathic sense).

Equally, if politics, trains and stamps really aren’t your thing, head to Eastern Marketfor organic produce and local arts and crafts.

Lafayette Square

Just north of National Mall is this historic area. A lovely family called the Obamas live on Pennsylvania Avenue (at number 1600 to be exact – it’s not very well numbered, so keep an eye out for an attractive little White House). You’re welcome to drop in for a guided tour, but expect quite a few other people to be there, too. And don’t expect to see the Obama’s. Or their dog.

Historic St John’s Churchis just across the road from Barack and Michelle’s place and nearby is the Treasury Building – depending on who or what you worship

Dupont Circle

Party central. Home to some of the best restaurants in town and a great place to go bar-hopping or clubbing, Dupont Circle is also a hub for the trendy lesbian and gay community, so you know there’ll be excellent fashion and music.

As far as sites go, you’re better off sipping the cocktails and stuffing your face, but you can always check out the Dupont Memorial Fountain and DC’s best art gallery, the Phillips Collection, along with a few other smaller galleries. Or stroll down Massachusetts Avenue if you’re excited by modern and classic architecture.

U Street Corridor

A must see is the birthplace of the late Duke Ellington in this classically American suburb of U Street Corridor. Noted for its African-American artists, eclectic businesses and restaurants, the neighbourhood is alive day and night.

Get educated at the African American Civil War Memorial and Museum, then entertained by grabbing a beer and catching some live music on every corner. In particular, check out the performance art spaces of Source Theatre, the Black Cat and HR57.

And if you’re in the corridor, you’ve got to go to Ben’s Chilli Bowl, an American institution and one that is sure to leave you satisfied. It’s run entirely on wind power – and let’s just say that after a few bowls of Ben’s famous fare, you could be, too.

Washington DC Eats & Drinks

It’s no secret that DC’s dining star is on the rise. Foodies flock here for our celebrity chefs, top-rated restaurants and, of course, exceptional cuisine. Recently ranked in the Top 10 “America’s Best Restaurant Cities,” Washington, DC offers eclectic dining options throughout its many unique neighborhoods. Whether you’re looking for an over-the-top evening experience or a quick bite at lunch, DC has something to satisfy every taste bud!

Family Fun

Kids will quickly find a favorite museum when visiting Washington, DC. Whether they want to see a space shuttle that has soared through space, marvel at an 80-foot dinosaur skeleton or learn what it takes to be a successful spy, many of DC’s museum exhibits are geared towards keeping kids (and their parents) engaged. And with so many free attractions and family-friendly restaurants, a vacation in Washington, DC makes everyone smile.

Washington Events

Restaurant Week in early January features a line-up of special menus and events at top restaurants in the DC area. Undo that top button and prepare to enter a food coma you may never recover from.

Black History Month in February honours the vital African-American heritage of Washington DC. The community comprises over 55% of the metro population and this month-long tribute features a number of special museum exhibits.

Memorial Day weekend in late May commemorates the service of America’s veterans with concerts and special events on the National Mall.

The National Barbecue Battle in late June draws thousands of people to Pennsylvania Avenue for arguably the best culinary competition in America.

Independence Day celebrations on the National Mall are the most festive in the country. The party on 4 July is every bit as impressive as one would expect from the federal capital.

The Kennedy Center Prelude Festival in September opens a new season at the preeminent national concert hall, with a number of free performances for the general public.

When To Go

Winter (December to February): -3-8°C (27-46°F). Chilly to say the least, but the White House Christmas decorations are a sight to behold.

Spring (March to April): 3-19°C (37-66°F). While temperatures are generally pleasant, they can drop suddenly so take a jacket even on sunny days.

Summer (May to September): 13-31°C (55-88°F). Barbecue and strolling heaven, this is a great time to take in the city.

Autumn (October to November): 4-20°C (39-68°F). Autumn is a beautiful time of year and gives you a chance to take in the spectacular colours of the changing leaves.

What To Miss

There is a lot of crime in Washington DC (and not just on Capitol Hill!), but as long as you keep your wits about you and don’t go wandering off too far on your own you should be completely fine.

When catching a taxi, it’s OK to hail one down but there are a few different companies that are rivals. Occasionally, you might be told you need to go to a rank instead of hailing.

Some people find too many museums a bit of a drain. We recommend breaking it up and spending the morning lazing at breakfast or cutting the tours short to sit with a beer and watch the people go past. It’s easy to find you’ve spent all your time in museums without seeing the city as it lives.

Washington DC is probably smaller than you’re imagining. It’s a good idea to check if your next spot is within walking distance before you jump in a cab that you don’t really need.

Getting Around

Plan your trip, especially late at night. We wouldn’t recommend strolling around alone after dark in quiet areas.

Taxis are everywhere in central DC. The pricing works on a zone system, with one zone costing US$5 and US$1.50 for each additional zone. There’s also a US$1.50 charge for each additional passenger and a US$1 rush hour charge. Split it between mates and you won’t even notice!

• Buses are pretty good in DC and the surrounding suburbs. Technically called the ‘Metrobus’, you’ll pay around US$1.25 for a trip.
• Metrois DC’s efficient subway network. You can ride for around US$1.50 although there are extra charges for long trips or during peak-hour. You’ll need to get a farecard, which allows you to buy single, or multiple trips.

Fun & Alternative Tours

Take a tour on a futuristic Segway and zip in and around the memorials. Pedal your way around town with Bike the Sites or hop on and off at only the sites you want to see with Old Town Trolley Tours. Foodies might dine around town with DC Metro Food Tours, those who are interested in romance should plan a Monuments by Moonlight tour, and for all the “wannabe spies” out there you may select the Spy City Tours.

Washington, DC Information

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Restaurant Week

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